Did you know that California leads the country in the number of pedestrian deaths? It’s true. During the first half of 2015, preliminary numbers show that more California pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents than pedestrians in any other state. Even worse, California’s pedestrian death toll increased seven percent from the same period in 2014.
One of the more recent pedestrian fatalities involved a San Francisco taxicab that jumped the curb in San Francisco’s Financial District, injuring three people at a shoe shine stand. This horrible incident helps to raise awareness of pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
The recent crash is representative of most pedestrian fatalities, in that it occurred in an urban area. In 2014, nearly 5000 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents. Seventy-six percent of those deaths occurred in urban areas.
Other factors associated with pedestrian deaths include the following:
• Pedestrians ages 70 and older have the highest pedestrian death rate.
• Seventy-six percent of pedestrian fatalities are male.
• Fifty percent of pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents that occurred between 6 p.m. and 12 a.m.
• Nearly half of pedestrians killed in nighttime accidents had blood alcohol concentrations above the legal driving limit.
Although pedestrians account for only about 11% of trips that result in accidents, they account for about 14% of traffic fatalities. In other words, pedestrians are overrepresented in crash fatality statistics.
Researchers believe that factors contributing to the higher fatality rate include an improved economy, reduced fuel prices, distracted driving, and warmer weather.
The San Francisco personal injury attorneys at Alexander Law Group, LLP will work with you to procure all possible monetary compensation after your injury. Our goal is to help our clients receive proper compensation for their pain and suffering. You can reach one of our San Francisco personal injury attorneys at 888.777.1776. Alternatively, you can use our online contact form and we will get back to you promptly.
